Triphala

What is Triphala?

Triphala is a staple of Ayurvedic (Indian) practice used for well over 2,000 years. It is made from the dried powder of three different fruits, hence its name: tri (Three) and phala (Fruit). Amla (Emblica officinalis), Harada (Terminalia chebula) and Bihara (Terminalia bellirica) are mixed in equal parts to make a proper Triphala.

It is said of Triphala; “No mother? Do not worry so long as you have Triphala.” Indian people believe that Triphala can care for the internal organs as a mother cares for her children. References to the use of Triphala can be found in the Sushrut Samhita, which is dated to 1500 BC. The Sushruta Samhita contains 184 chapters and description of 1120 illnesses, 700 medicinal plants and a detailed study on Anatomy.

What is Triphala Used For?

Amla (aka. Indian Gooseberry, aka. Amalaki) is one of the highest natural known source of vitamin C, having 20 times the vitamin C content of an orange. The vitamin C in Amla is also uniquely heat stable. Amla is associated with the pitta dosha. Bihara is astringent, tonic, digestive and anti-spasmodic. Harada is a bitter and associated with the vata dosha, elements of air and space. It has emollient properties and as with most bitters encourages peristalsis and proper digestion. The Medicine Buddha in Tibetan tankas (sacred pictures) holds the harada plant.

Uses and Benefits of Triphala

This information in our Herbal Reference Guide is intended only as a general reference for further exploration, and is not a replacement for professional health advice. This content does not provide dosage information, format recommendations, toxicity levels, or possible interactions with prescription drugs. Accordingly, this information should be used only under the direct supervision of a qualified health practitioner such as a naturopathic physician.

*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Ecologically Harvested is a term that describes all herbs sold by Gaia Herbs that are not Certified Organic. Ecologically Harvested herbs include herbs that are harvested in their natural habitat, (i.e., wild harvested) according to specific guidelines for harvesting these herbs (i.e., away from roads and industry, as well as guidelines to avoid overharvesting). Our term, Ecologically Harvested, also includes herbs that are grown in managed woodland areas, fields designated for specific herbs, and herbs that are grown by indigenous growers, such as Kava Kava. All Ecologically Harvested herbs pass pesticide and heavy metal testing as well as microbial testing, prior to release.